asked the Minister of Labour, as representing the Ministry of Health, if he is aware that the West Ham board of guardians have now actually paid out on account of unemployment a sum of £1,383,739 up to the 11th November; that the whole of this, with the exception of £300,000 which was borrowed from the Government, has been derived from local rates; that the West Ham board of guardians have been compelled to approach the Government for a further loan of £300,000; that other Poor Law authorities are in as bad, if not worse, position than the West Ham guardians; and whether he is prepared to receive a deputation from the various Poor Law authorities of what are known as the necessitous areas?

My right hon. Friend is aware of the difficulties experienced by West Ham and certain other unions. He has not as yet been requested to receive such a deputation as is suggested and will carefully consider such a request if it should be made.